Money doesn't grow on trees. But that's okay. You can simply wish a government grant into existence. According to recent reports, the Federal Grants Administration (FGA) promises to expedite money directly into your bank account.

The FGA acts as the fairy godmother of financial wishes. But, will the FGA be granting your wish, or those of a scammer?

They want you to use it to pay for everything from home repairs to college tuition, and even past due bills. These grants are available for "free" as long as you don't mind handing over your Social Security number or paying processing fees.

Godmother of Financial Wishes

The FGA acts as the fairy godmother of financial wishes. But, will the FGA be granting your wish, or those of a scammer?

(phone call)

Steve: Hello?

FGA: I'm trying to reach Steve Bell. I have an urgent message for him.

Steve: You got him.

FGA: Hello, Mr. Bell. You've been selected to receive a $10,000 grant from the government for paying your taxes on time.

Steve: Whoa - what?

FGA: That's right, sir. This is free government money for you to use on anything you wish.

Steve: That's incredible!

FGA: Yes, sir. It is. Thank you for being a responsible taxpayer. Now let's get those funds into your bank account by tomorrow afternoon. All we need is for you to cover the processing fees to receive the grant.

Steve: Oh.

FGA: Don't worry. It's quick and easy. You can pay the $600 processing fee with a wire transfer from your bank. We just need to confirm your Social Security number first. I need to make sure you qualify for the maximum grant.

Steve: (click)

Make-Believe

Just like fairy godmothers, the FGA is make-believe. They don't exist, but scammers use this fake agency name to convince unsuspecting victims that they're speaking with an official governmental agency.

A successful government grant scam occurs when the victim either:

• Provides personal information, like a Social Security number or bank account details;

• Makes a deposit equal to a portion of the grant into the scammer's account; or

• Pays up-front fees using gift cards, an electronic bank transfer, or cryptocurrency to receive the fake funds.

The FGA scammers are working hard to get the word out about their "free government grant" program. They're blasting consumers with various social media posts, online ads, unsolicited emails, text messages, and phone calls. Don't take the bait.

How to Avoid This Scam

Avoid this scam by knowing a few simple facts about government grants.

• Fact #1: Legitimate federal grants require an application.

• Fact #2: Legitimate federal grants must be used for a specific purpose.

• Fact #3: Legitimate federal grant programs do not require you to pay anything to receive the grant.

You will never be contacted about a grant you didn't apply for. Apply for real grants (for free) at grants.gov.

Protect your personal data and let these scammers save their fairytales for bedtime. Never share confidential information in exchange for a promise of free money. If you suspect a government grant scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission or call the Health and Human Services (HHS) Fraud Hotline at 1.800.447.8477.